N.C. town delays ban on gang members from parks

Wednesday

Oct 2, 2013 at 12:01 AMOct 2, 2013 at 10:34 AM

ACLU involved

A proposal to ban gang members from parks in Wilmington is being delayed after the American Civil Liberties Union raised questions.

Following recent violence in parks, city council was considering an ordinance allowing gang members in parks to be charged with trespassing. The charge would follow a warning. But earlier this week, the American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina sent council members a letter questioning the law.

ACLU attorney Sarah Preston says the ordinance could invite profiling and violate people's constitutional rights to travel. The delay in implementing the law was proposed by Councilman Kevin O'Grady. He says the language is too vague and wants to give city attorneys time to sharpen the ordinance. It's expected to be considered by council next month.

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